A Guide to the Best Dog Paddling Pool in UK 2023
During the summer dog paddling pools are a simple way of helping keep dogs cool while giving them a completely different type of exercise than they’re used to.
This article offers a shortlist of paddling pools that we’ve tested and recommend for purchase, as well as a comprehensive buyer’s guide for those seeking more detailed information about these products. We cover their various uses, potential dangers, and all the important factors to consider when making a decision to a dog paddling pool in 2023.
Our Top Picks of the Best Dog Paddling Pools
Short on time? These are the short list of the best dog paddling pools.
The Best Dog Paddling Pools Reviews
Below we have the short list of all the dog paddling pools we have tested and reviewed.
We also double-checked the reviews for each of these dog paddling pools ourselves. The lowest has over 550 (very good) reviews and one of them here is the highest rated with over 6,000 reviews!
Its important to note that there are different sizes to all of these dog paddling pools, so if you have a smaller dog, your padding pool could be cheaper. And of course if you have something like a giant Schnauzer (we love schnauzers!), yea its going to be huge
Matt & Luna ❤
1. Pecute Dog Paddling Pool for Dogs
This dog paddling pool is very sensibly priced and thoroughly tested with over 6400 reviews!
The side walls of the pool are 6mm thick, made from corrugated plastic boards, then have an outer mesh and PVC coating and there is a quick drain plug.
Things We Liked
- Available in four sizes and two colours, green and blue
- Collapsable so easy to store
- Quick-release drain plug
- Came with a brush for cleaning the pool
- 6mm thick PP Inner side walls, with a mesh & PVC outer
This is a great sturdy pool, I have a 9 year old child and 12 week old puppy who have both been in, the sides are so good at staying up when full that the pup got stuck half in, half out without it collapsing!
Emmitt, Dog paddling pool owner
Dog paddling pools that have this design with rigid side panels, the sides are not going to fall in on themselves as the water inside pushes them outwards all the time. So yes you do need to keep a decent amount of water in them, as just an inch won’t be enough. Frankly, in the summer it’s an excuse to get the hose pipe out and shower down the dog and any unsuspecting children that are nearby.
There are four sizes for this pool, with all but the smallest of dogs, don’t go for the “medium” as it really is quite small and the large is huge for a dog paddling pool at 1.8M wide. below are our recommendations for picking the size of the pool, but see below for buyers’ tips on choosing the right size pool
Medium (80 x 20 cm)
- Suitable for small breeds of dogs
Large (120 x 30 cm)
- Perfect for medium-sized dogs like Luna
- Or more than one smaller dog
Extra Large (160 x 30 cm)
- A better choice for a boisterous medium-sized dog that is jumping in and out every 5 seconds or a pair of dogs
XXL (180 x 30 cm)
- Ideal for larger breeds or if you have more than one dog that is water mad
Below you can see how this dog paddling pool is folded away for storage:
For £50 at the time of publishing for the large-sized dog paddling pool, it’s a bargain. We like this pool and so do over 6,000 other owners.
2. Pecute Paddling Pool for Dogs & Kids
- Multiple sizes: There are multiple sizes for options, ranging from big dogs like German shepherds to small cats like American Shorthair. Also, if you have two or more small/middle dogs/cats, you can…
Available in blue and red, plus in 3 different sizes. This dog paddling pool has an anti-skid & wear resistant bottom to help provide some grip when your dog is getting in and out of the pool
It has rigid side panels that fold up (see image) so when the pool needs to be put away and when you add a decent amount of water, the weight of the water pushes the sides out. Plus the walls are not blow-up children’s pools, so they won’t puncture as a kid’s pool would with a dog jumping in and out every 5 seconds.
Its great strong was very strong and sturdy once u filled with water i have 4 dogs and they loved it for sure
Bianca bray, owner of this Dog Paddling Pool
Things We Liked
- Anti-skid and wear-resistant material inside
- With tough side panels, you need to fill the pool with water at least halfway
- Wrapped top edges to limit chafing
- The larger size would easily accommodate a German Sheppard dog or many smaller dogs
The walls of this dog paddling pool are not as high as some of the others. This does mean less water, but also makes it easier for your dog to get in and out of the paddling pool.
3. Toozey Foldable Dog Paddling Pool
- ❤ FUN IN THE HOT WEATHER – The dog paddling pool can cooling your pet at hot weather, or it can be used as a dog bath tub. It’s also a foldable paddling pool for kids! Your kids can also join in…
Like many of the dog paddling pools, we’ve seen and reviewed. The Toozy foldable dog paddling pool comes in three different sizes allowing you to choose the right size for your dog or dogs.
The one thing we liked the most about this pool is the one-year warranty with the statement “if you are not 100% satisfied with our dog paddling pool, we will provide a full refund or replacement!”
Things We Liked
- One year warranty
- Polyester mesh encapsulated between two layers of PVC
- Comes with a repair patch
- Folds down into one of the smallest paddling pools here
- The drain plug has a second option to attach a hose
The hose attachment for draining the pool was a good idea. However, it was too big for a standard hose pipe (I saw someone else had spotted this in one of the reviews we read too).
If you really want this feature, then quickly measuring the outside diameter of the nozzle and checking eBay for some clear tube would be the best approach here as we recently bought some tube just like this for a van conversion (way off topic I know!).
4. GoStock Dog Pool Plastic Dog Paddling Pool
- ✤【 Safe Durable Pet Dog Swimming Pool】: Pet Bathing Tub is made of extra-tough high-quality Tasteless PVC composite fabric that is safe and non-toxic, durable and scratch-resistant! The built-in…
This dog paddling pool for us folded down more nearly than the others. Not entirely sure why though, the panel construction was very similar to a few of the others. The panels themselves did look thicker than one or two of the others (shows MDF in their product photos).
Available in two sizes and at very similar price points as the other four. This dog paddling pool while not the most reviewed, had some of the best reviews from customers overall and we could see why.
Things We Liked
- Lower walls than some of the other pools here
- Folded up very neatly
- Non-slip bottom to the pool
- Came with a clear carrying/storage bag
5. Furrybaby Foldable Dog Paddling Pool
- ANTI-SKID AND WEAR-RESISTANT – The dog pools are made of thickened PVC with polyester inner mesh. The MDF for the sidewall will effectively maintain its shape and the sides will not collapse.
And we have saved this one to last. Do not think for one moment it is not on par with the other four (although we did prefer the first one, the Pecute Dog Paddling Pool). This pool is available in four colours, green blue, light blue and pink. Luna liked the pink one the most out of all the pools we saw & reviewed!
All of these pools have a side emptying plug. This one was quite near the bottom and once the majority of the water has poured out, you can easily lift the opposite side to get all the water out and then turn it upside down if desired.
Things We Liked
- Folded up very neatly
- Side empty plug
- Low sided walls
- Available in four sizes, so covers small to very large dogs
Dog Paddling Pool Buyer’s Guide: The Ultimate Resource
Dogs are like family members to us and it’s important to provide them with the same level of care, love and attention that you would for any other family member.
One of the ways you can do this is by investing in a dog paddling pool. These pools offer a great way for your little shadow to stay cool in the hot summer months and also provide them with a unique form of exercise.
In this Dog Paddling Pool Buyer’s Guide, we have already taken a look at the best dog paddling pools on the market above and here we answer some of the most common questions that dog owners have about dog paddling pools.
Whether you have a large or small dog, we will help you find the perfect paddling pool to keep them happy and healthy. And if you have any questions not covered here, let us know in the comments section at the bottom.
Matt & Luna
Are Paddling Pools Good for Dogs?
Abso-woofly!
Paddling pools are an amazing way to help your dog cool down in the heat of summer. Dogs can easily become overheated and dehydrated during hot weather and giving them a paddling pool to splash around in can be a lifesaver. Additionally, paddling pools can also provide dogs with a form of exercise that is low-impact and easy on their joints (helpful for older animals).
It’s important to note that not all dogs enjoy swimming or being in the water (luna hated it at first, see our tips below).
If your dog is hesitant or afraid of water, it is best to start slowly and introduce them to the pool in small increments. Do not force your dog into the water, and always keep a very close eye on their behaviour closely to ensure it’s “fun” for them.
Will a Dog Burst a Paddling Pool?
While it is possible for a dog to puncture or damage a paddling pool, most specialised dog paddling pools on the market are made with durable materials that can withstand rough play. See any of the examples above.
It’s important to choose a pool that is the right size for your dog and if your dog has a history of destructive behaviour, you may want to consider a sturdier pool made from heavy-duty materials. And still, keep a close eye on him/her to identify any undesirable behaviour and encourage positive behaviours instead.
Is a Dog Pool A Good Idea?
Yes, a dog pool can be a great addition to your garden or patio. A dog paddling pool can provide your fluffy ball of fun with a place to cool down, play, and exercise, all while staying safe and healthy.
Dog paddling pools come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your dog and your outdoor space (again see above for our 5 top recommendations of dog paddling pools).
Are Kids Paddling Pools Safe for Dogs?
While children’s paddling pools may seem like a good option for dogs, they’re certainly cheap in the supermarkets. They are not always the best choice.
Kids’ pools are usually designed for children and may not be large enough for bigger dogs. Additionally, children’s swimming pools are likely not made with the same robust materials as dog paddling pools and may not be as resistant to dog nails and teeth from jumping in and out or at play.
What’s the Difference Between a Dog Pool and a Kiddie Pool?
The main differences between a dog pool and a kiddie pool are the size and choice of materials.
Kids’ pools are normally made up of flexible plastic that you inflate. Dog pools are generally larger and deeper than kiddie pools, making them better suited for dogs of all sizes. Additionally, dog pools are usually made from tougher materials that can withstand rough play and sharp claws.
Are Inflatable Pools Okay for Dogs?
Inflatable paddling pools can be a great option for dogs. However, it’s important to choose an inflatable pool that is made from the right materials and designed specifically for dogs to use. Inflatable pools that are designed for children will not be strong enough to withstand the weight and vibrant activity of a dog.
Why Dogs Should Not Swim in Pools
While swimming can be a great form of exercise for dogs known as “hydrotherapy“, it is important to apply caution when allowing your dog to swim in traditional swimming pools.
Pool chemicals like chlorine can irritate a dog’s skin and eyes, and can also cause them to become quite sick if ingested. Additionally, dogs may be at risk of drowning if they are unable to climb out of the pool on their own (I had to pull a dear out of a friend’s pool one year, it was not a “fun” experience).
If you do decide to allow your dog to swim in a full-sized or larger pool, be sure to keep a close eye on them at all times and make sure they can easily get out of the pool. Additionally, it’s important to rinse your dog off with fresh water after swimming to remove any pool chemicals from their fur.
How Long Should Dogs be in a Pool?
The amount of time your dog should spend in a pool depends on several factors, including their age, health, and swimming ability.
As a rule of thumb, it’s best to start with short swimming sessions and gradually increase the length of time as your dog becomes more comfortable in the water.
Most dogs should not swim for more than 30 minutes at a time, and it’s important to take regular breaks to allow them to rest and drink water (rather than pool water!).
How Long Can You Safely Leave Water in a Paddling Pool?
It’s best to change the water in a paddling pool every day to prevent bacteria and other contaminants from building up.
Leaving water in a paddling pool for an extended period of time can lead to algae growth and other unsanitary conditions that can be harmful to your dog’s health.
You can treat the water and we cover those questions in the few sections further down, but simply it’s easier to just pull the plug and put fresh in the next day.
How Do You Make a Dog Paddling Pool?
While it’s possible to make your own dog paddling pool using materials like PVC pipes, tarpaulins etc…, it’s generally easier and safer to purchase a pre-made pool that is designed specifically for dogs.
We have covered the top five dog paddling pools above. These are ready to go and designed for the job of handling a dog jumping in and out. And could be with you tomorrow.
Is It OK for My Dog to Swim Every Day?
While swimming can be a great form of exercise for dogs, it’s important to be cautious when allowing your dog to swim every day.
Swimming can be hard on a dog’s joints and muscles if they are left swimming for ages and ages plus can also be exhausting for them.
It’s best to limit swimming sessions to a few times a week, to begin with, and to keep a close eye on your dog’s behaviour closely to ensure they are not overexerting themselves.
How Do I Keep My Dog’s Paddling Pool Clean?
To keep your dog’s paddling pool clean, it’s important to change the water regularly and rinse the pool out with fresh water after each use.
You can also use pet-safe cleaning products to help keep the pool free of bacteria and other contaminants. Emptying it is a far better, simpler idea though.
Can You Put Milton Tablets in a Paddling Pool?
Milton tablets are commonly used to sanitise baby bottles and other baby items, they are not recommended for use in dog paddling pools.
Milton tablets can be harmful to dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with their skin or eyes. Instead, simply rinse the pool out with fresh water after each use.
How Often Do You Change the Water in a Dog’s Pool?
Let’s face it, your dog is going to be in and out of this pool a LOT! So it’s best to change the water in your dog’s pool every day to prevent bacteria and other contaminants from building up. Additionally, be sure to rinse the pool out with fresh water after each use to help keep it clean and sanitary.
Do I Need to Wash My Dog After the Pool?
It’s a good idea to rinse your dog off with fresh water after swimming in a pool to remove any chlorine or other chemicals from their fur. Additionally, if your dog has sensitive skin, you may want to give them a quick bath to help prevent irritation or itching.
Why Do Dogs Bite the Water When They Swim?
Many dogs bite at the water when they swim because it’s a natural instinct of theirs.
Dogs use their mouths to explore the world around them (just think how much they use them to play with balls or when they were teething), and biting at the water can be a fun and playful way for them to interact with their environment.
Is Swimming Better Than Walking for Dogs?
Swimming and walking both offer great benefits for dogs, but they work for different muscle groups and provide different forms of exercise. Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that can be easier on a dog’s joints, while walking provides a great cardiovascular workout and can help strengthen a dog’s bones and muscles.
How Deep Should a Dog Swimming Pool Be?
The depth of a dog swimming pool will depend on the size and swimming ability of your dog. In general, it’s best to choose a pool that is shallow enough for your dog to stand comfortably in but deep enough for them to swim and play in. If you have a small dog, a pool with a depth of 12-18 inches should be sufficient, while larger dogs may require a pool that is deeper.
Do Dogs Like Kiddie Pools?
While some dogs may enjoy playing in kiddie pools, they are generally not the best choice for dogs. Kiddie pools are usually small and shallow, and may not be large enough for bigger dogs. Additionally, they are typically made from thin, flimsy materials that may not hold up well to rough play.
Do You Empty the Paddling Pool Every Day?
Yes, it’s best to empty your paddling pool every day to prevent bacteria and other contaminants from building up. Leaving water in the pool for an extended period of time can lead to unsanitary conditions that can be harmful to your dog’s health.
Can You Put Chlorine Tablets in the Paddling Pool?
Yes, you can, but without a PH testing kit and the right knowledge, doing so might cause more problems than it’s worth. Just rinse the pool out each evening, it is cheaper and easier.
How Do I Keep My Dog Comfortable in the Pool?
It’s important to choose a pool that is the right size for them and to keep an eye on the water temperature.
Most dogs prefer water temperatures that are similar to their body temperature, so be sure to check the temperature of the water before allowing your dog to swim. If the pool has been in direct sunlight all day, it could become very hot, the same as very cold first thing in the morning. So do test it for them. They cannot talk to you!
Additionally, you may want to consider adding a pool ramp or steps to make it easier for your dog to get in and out of the pool as well.
How Do I Introduce My Dog to the Pool?
It’s really important to take things slowly and make the experience as positive as possible.
Start by allowing your dog to explore the pool area on their own and get comfortable with the water.
Then, gradually introduce them to the water by standing with them in the paddling pool and providing plenty of encouragement and positive reinforcement. And treats, use lots and lots of treats!
Can Dogs Get Diarrhea from Pool Water?
While it’s possible for dogs to get diarrhoea from swimming in pool water, it’s relatively uncommon.
Diarrhoea is typically caused by ingesting contaminated water or by coming into contact with faecal matter, so it’s important to make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water to drink while swimming and to rinse them off with fresh, clean water after bathing.
Are Paddling Pools Good for Dogs in the Heat?
Yes absolutely! Paddling pools can be a fantastic way to help your dog cool off and stay comfortable during hot weather.
It is important that you keep an eye on your dog while they are in the pool (your role is “dog guard”) and provide them with plenty of opportunities to rest and fresh drinking water.
And we can’t stress this enough, choose a dog paddling pool that is meant to be a dog paddling pool. See our recommendations at the top of this page for dog paddling pools.
The Best Dog Paddling Pools
We covered these in detail at the top of the article, these are our best dog paddling pools.
In Summary
Dog paddling pools can be a great way to provide your dog and you with exercise and entertainment, as well as a cool spot to rest your own during hot weather.
When choosing a paddling pool for your dog, be sure to consider their size, swimming ability, and personality, as well as the materials and design of the pool. Choose a dog paddling pool that is designed to be a dog paddling pool.
We’ve said this a few times now, keep an eye on your pet while they are using a dog paddling pool and provide them with plenty of opportunities to rest and drink fresh water. With the right pool (see above) and proper hooman supervision, your dog can enjoy safe and fun water play all summer long.
And remember, most of us never knew what could be eaten, let alone drank until we had a dog!
Matt & Luna
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